Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air cooling units. Those that do tend to have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much sun and heat.
If your home has ductwork, an central AC system might be a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if your building does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system could be ideal.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an affordable and simple way to cool your condo without the need to install ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a room and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them an ideal choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which must be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling a single room, which makes them not a great choice for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, so it’s crucial to choose models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They can also be an issue for security, since they can be easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s installed in, you may need to put in accordions or even wood to block any space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide on rails, with the sleeve fixed to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you need, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it requires to cool it comfortably. To maximize efficiency, think about whether your room gets a lot of sun or is on the upper floor. A larger unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. To ensure a longer-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC system. The initial cost might be higher but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower utility bills each month and a longer service life than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling units that function like space heaters. They are designed to be plugged into an outlet, and a tube or mini-duct will run out of an opening to vent heat and carbon dioxide (not to be confused with the poisonous gas carbon monoxide). The units can be moved from rooms and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is defined by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized in accordance with the space it will be utilized in. The units that are too big won’t cool well and can get worn out faster than.
They are typically employed in apartment buildings and converted homes without ducting systems, where the principal cooling method is central AC unit. By using a portable AC unit in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the load on the central system and save money and energy.
The most reliable portable units will include a dehumidifier mode to reduce humidity, which is a frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their the performance of the unit and remote controls for simple operation. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save electricity and money in comparison to non-certified units.
If you opt to opt for a portable option, it’s essential to choose a dual-hose unit instead of a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit outside air to be drawn in through the hot condenser coils and then expelled through the other hose. This greatly increases the effectiveness of the unit, and it helps to minimize the noise produced by the process. This feature could cost more, but the benefits and comfort be worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent choice for condos because they can be used in areas in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply aren’t feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools air as it travels through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives, so you can cool your room without disturbing others. Some ductless systems offer heating capabilities, too, so you can enjoy all year-round comfort.
A ductless system can be suitable for various types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, bedrooms, and bedrooms. They can also increase the quality of life for older homes, apartments and condos without ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily housing because it can easily be adapted to different types of occupancy patterns.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. It can also lower your electricity costs. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which helps them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling efficiency, and can be customized to your personal preferences in temperature. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, in addition with a highly efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can aid in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms while ensuring the comfort of your home throughout the season. If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us today! Our knowledgeable technicians are available to assist you. We can assist you in determining the ideal air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.